Class Schedule

The International Wine Guild calendar of upcoming courses is below. To view only those classes within a certain category, choose the class category you'd like to view from the drop-down menu and select the narrow results button.

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Professional Diploma and Certification Programs

The Guild has State approved wine school certification and diploma programs for enthusiasts and professionals. Specific programs have been developed for Sommeliers, Chefs, Wine Merchants, Wine Managers and Cellar Managers (those currently not in the business). Professional programs of the International Wine & Spirits Guild are approved and regulated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education, Private Occupational School Board.

For each professional diploma option there are four levels of certification; from basic certification (Level I) to the prestigious Guild Senior Wine Master (Level IV). The only exception is the Cellar Manager program which has been specifically designed for those not currently in the industry or those having no interest in being in the industry but want a more formal wine education. The Cellar Manger programs range from Level I to Level III.

Click on the PDF Program Brief hyperlink for a one-page brief on each of our diploma programs. (PDF Program Briefs)

Level I Certification.

All programs of professional study begin with the Guild Certification Seminar. To complete a level I certification you must successfully complete the Certification Seminar. This seminar is offered every month in Denver as well as other locations. Check the schedule for dates and locations.

Completion of the Level I Certification allows you to be a:

Certified Wine Sommelier

Certified Wine Merchant

Certified Chef of Wine Arts

Certified Wine Manager

Certified Cellar Manager (for the enthusiast)

If you have extensive knowledge and/or experience in the wine industry you can bypass the Level I certification.

Level II Certification.

The Level II certification builds upon the foundation established in the Level I Certification program. This is an intermediate level of certification. This level of certification is our minimum recommendation if you are interested in a career in the industry.

Level IV Certification.

The following are the educational requirements to obtain a Level IV certification: Guild Senior Wine Master. You must be in the wine and food industry to obtain this certification.

Completion of a Level III Certification program.

Vinification Chemistry

Viniculture

Wine Markets and Marketing

Advanced Wine History series (ancient, medieval and modern wine history)

Thesis

Level IV Tasting and Practical Exams.

Completion of the Level IV Diploma program and Certification allows you to be the prestigeous Guild Senior Wine Master.

All of the courses needed to complete the Level II, Level III or IV Certification can be taken in an intensive study format. Contact the Guild for more details by clicking here. In addition, almost all of these advanced classes can be taken without studying towards a diploma. Contact the Guild for details.